We took a whirl around SXSW, and here’s some of our favorite artists from the week:
Best band with every song that sounds like it plays at that moment of a coming-of-age film: Magic Man.
We caught Magic Man at the Chevy Showcase, and were blown away. They even outperformed seasoned headliners Young the Giant.
Best up-and-coming party-pop kids: The Wonder Villains
One of the quintessential joys of SXSW is stumbling upon an empty venue at 2pm on a Thursday and finding an unknown band that completely blows you away. Northern Ireland party-pop band The Wonder Villains were just absolutely delightful, and everything a SXSW showcase is supposed to be. A great 80s look and feel, a bouncy stage show, and shiny synth lines topped by pure and powerful vocals. Think Shiny Toy Guns meets Anamanaguchi.
Best dreamy-dance normcore style: Hospitality
A 1:00pm Wednesday set at Hype Hotel isn’t optimal for a SXSW band, but sure is great for fans trying to get as close as possible to the stage. Hospitality is fairly plain and unassuming and will need some work on upping the stakes of their stage show, but perhaps the stripped down and somewhat awkward style is deliberate. It’s easier to lose oneself in the dreamy, 70s shoe-gaze dance funk of Hospitality if one is not distracted by such things as coordinated guitar strumming or choreographed hair swirling.
It was a tight set by the five piece band with an easy, syncopated feel and sultry vocals by lead singer Amber Papini with catchy song after catchy song. All around enjoyable.
Best hipster fashion and coordinated use of polka dots: Miniature Tigers
When we interviewed the Brooklyn band the day after their SXSW showcase at Karma Lounge, they swore the fact they all save one were wearing polka dots was entirely unintentional and coincidental. Sure…
Best band to compose your video game love story: Anamanaguchi
Ever wonder what it would sound like if your video game hero and heroine fell in love, tried to escape the confines of the digital world, and had their struggles backed by a joyous soundtrack? If you answered, “yes,” then Anamanaguchi is for you. Their song “Endless Fantasy” particularly captures this feeling oh-so-well.
Best fairy fiddle sprite: Lindsey Stirling
We caught her twice in one day, at the Pandora Den and then later at Perez Hilton’s “One Night in Austin.” Talented, cute and fun as hell to watch.
Best stage exit: Young the Giant
More bands should crowd surf off stage and out of the venue. Just sayin’.
Favorite all around set: The Colourist and Kishi Bashi
I know it’s cheating to pick more than one, but each brought such beautiful song writing and happiness to this weary soul.
